Prep- Second shift

Prep Cook

Mercado is seeking a dedicated, reliable, and experienced Prep Cook to join our fast-paced, dynamic kitchen team. This position plays a vital role in our back-of-house operations, balancing hands-on food preparation with maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness and organization. The ideal candidate is hardworking, detail-oriented, and committed to supporting a smooth and efficient culinary environment.

Key Responsibilities:

Assist chefs and the kitchen manager with food preparation, including chopping vegetables, slicing meats, preparing sauces, and other mise en place.

Accurately measure, portion, and organize ingredients in line with standardized recipes.

Stock and set up prep stations, ensuring all supplies and ingredients are ready for service.

Label, date, and store food properly while consistently following FIFO standards.

Follow recipes and prep instructions from chefs and supervisors with precision.

Maintain clean, safe, and organized prep areas at all times.

Support overall kitchen cleanliness by removing trash, sweeping, mopping, and completing other cleaning duties as needed.

Wash dishes, utensils, pots, and pans (both manually and with commercial dishwashing equipment), stepping in to cover dishwasher shifts or assist as needed.

Keep dishwashing and kitchen areas sanitized, orderly, and fully stocked with clean wares.

Strictly follow all food safety, health, and sanitation guidelines to uphold Mercado's high standards.

Requirements:

Prior prep cook experience is required.

Strong knife skills and solid understanding of prep techniques.

Ability to excel in a fast-paced, high-volume kitchen environment.

Excellent time management, multitasking, and attention to detail.

Physical stamina to stand for long periods and lift up to 50 lbs.

Familiarity with kitchen tools, equipment, and food safety best practices.

Flexible availability, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.

This is a great opportunity for someone who takes pride in their work, values teamwork, and is eager to grow with a professional culinary team.

Mercado Montclair